The RISE Program
At WVVA, we know every student learns differently, and families have busy, unique schedules. That’s why we offer RISE, an online learning program available to students who meet school eligibility criteria and are ready for a more independent learning model.1 Unlike the standard WVVA program, which has daily live classes, our RISE (Reimagined Individual Schedules for Empowerment) program is for students looking to optimize their learning time and schedule, whether that means restructuring your student’s day or planning around appointments, arts programs, or sports practices. 1Daily logins and academic expectations are required to remain in the program.
What is the RISE program?
RISE (Reimagined Individual Schedules for Empowerment) is a unique learning option at WVVA that allows students to pursue their education in a way that best suits their individual needs and family schedules. Students can access coursework and class recordings anytime, and they’ll connect with a certified teacher throughout their learning journey to ensure they’re staying on track.
It’s important to remember that flexibility doesn’t mean anything goes. Students in this program are still expected to attend all required sessions, including any related to state compliance, testing, special services, or interventions. The flexibility is tied to when and how your student engages with their assigned learning, not in meeting their core academic responsibilities.
Why Families Choose RISE
RISE lets your child complete schoolwork when it works best for your family’s routine. RISE helps optimize your student’s learning time, while still having structured accountability and required support throughout the week and year. Please note, students are still required to log in daily.
Stay on Track With Support
Students in the RISE program aren’t required to attend live class sessions, except for specific academic support related to special education, English Language Learner (ELL) services, dyslexia support, or other school-required sessions. They can also attend live virtual classes as needed and transition back to a more traditional online school model at any time. However, students are required to meet once a week with their assigned check-in teacher. It is important to note that while RISE students are not required to attend live classes, they are still required to log a minimum of 90 minutes of online time daily. Additionally, to remain in the RISE program, students are required to maintain a minimum attendance percentage of 90% and at least a 70% in all core classes. These requirements are checked on a weekly basis.
High-Quality Education, Greater Flexibility
RISE students use the same rigorous curriculum as traditional WVVA students. They attend homeroom regularly, participate in assessments, and receive all required special services based on their learning needs. They also have access to a variety of other school programs. RISE ensures that learning and growth continue while giving families the freedom to manage their own routines.
Who thrives in RISE?
RISE is ideal for eligible students who are:
Motivated and independent learners
Able to participate in routine online coursework
Ready to set daily schedules and practice consistent time management
Consistently supported by a Learning Coach at home
Students with IEPs, English Learner plans, or other required services will still have mandatory sessions that are part of their individual plans.
RISE Student Requirements
To be accepted into the RISE program, students must meet the school’s eligibility requirements within one week of enrollment at WVVA:
- Complete orientation course
- Complete benchmark testing in both math and ELA
- Previous attendance rate of at least 90%
- Previous core class grades of at least 70%
Students must also maintain the attendance and grades thresholds to remain in the program. Students who are not meeting academic expectations will be transitioned out of the program.
Students who are interested in applying for the program should fill out an application within one week of starting at WVVA. An informational email with the application link will come to both student and learning coach emails upon enrollment at WVVA.
Further questions can be sent to wvvarise@westvaacademy.org.
RISE Learning Coach Expectations
Learning Coaches play a key role in student success by:
- Establishing routines and monitoring learning time
- Supporting academic growth and encouraging problem-solving
- Teaching students to ask for help effectively from teachers
- Celebrating progress while allowing students to learn from productive struggle
RISE & Graduation
RISE students earn the same WVVA diploma as other students; transcripts do not indicate participation in RISE.
Graduation requirements are identical for all students, as set by the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is RISE different from the standard program?
Unlike a standard WVVA program, RISE doesn’t require direct instruction in live online classes — students attend limited live sessions, typically including any required sessions for support or state compliance. RISE students do, however, have access to all recorded class connect sessions, so they can watch them as needed or when it fits their learning schedule. RISE students are still required to log a minimum of 90 minutes of online time daily.
Is the curriculum the same as standard WVVA?
Yes! RISE students use the same online platform, curriculum, and grade-level courses as standard WVVA students. They also have access to social emotional learning and may participate in all clubs and social opportunities offered at WVVA and K12.
Do siblings need to enroll in the same program?
No. Families often have one child in RISE and another in the standard program, depending on individual learning needs.
What if RISE isn’t the right fit?
Students who fail to meet the requirements for staying in RISE will be transitioned back to standard learning. Students may also be transitioned back to standard learning at the request of the Learning Coach.